‘Reheating spoiled food does not make it safe’

DISTINGUISHING between a simple stomach bug and severe food contamination is critical for timely medical intervention.

- Unnikrishnan S

In this interview, Dr Purushothaman Kuzhikkathukandiyil, professor of paediatrics at MES Medical College, Malappuram, explains the key indicators, red flags, and safety protocols to Unnikrishnan S. Edited excerpts:

How do you distinguish food poisoning from a standard stomach bug?

While both cause loose stools, abdominal pain and vomiting, food poisoning isn’t always strictly bowel-related. It can manifest through fast-progressing neurological signs like profound weakness or difficulty opening the eyes. Evaluating the full scope of symptoms is essential, especially if multiple people who shared the same meal fall ill, which strongly indicates food contamination.